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Description
Since late September 2024, southern Algeria has faced significant outbreaks of malaria and diphtheria, severely impacting the wilayas of In Guezzam and Bordj Badji Mokhtar (those new provinces were part of Tamanrasset Province). Heavy rains in September led to stagnant waters, accelerating mosquito breeding and increasing malaria cases to 536 registered cases with 40 deaths. Diphtheria cases have risen to 115 registered cases with 28 deaths, largely due to vaccination gaps and strained healthcare resources. The health system is overwhelmed by shortages of medications, equipment, and personnel, hindering effective response. All age groups are affected, but children and unvaccinated individuals are particularly vulnerable to diphtheria. Secondary effects include potential spread to additional regions, economic disruptions, inadequate sanitation infrastructure posing future health risks, educational interruptions, and increased psychosocial stress within affected communities.
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Actions taken by National Society
Summary
Since the beginning of the malaria and diphtheria outbreaks, the Algerian Red Crescent has actively responded by deploying 7 staff members, mobilizing 12 first aid providers, and engaging 79 volunteers to support patient care, laboratory work, and community outreach. Infection prevention and control measures have been implemented through sterilization and hygiene protocols. The organization launched a sensitization campaign targeting educators and communities, with a training session scheduled to raise awareness about disease prevention. Volunteers are engaged in community-based surveillance and data collection, while vaccination advocacy efforts are ongoing to initiate diphtheria vaccination campaigns. The Algerian Red Crescent is also collaborating with health authorities to establish isolation areas for diphtheria patients and continues to prioritize resource mobilization, healthcare delivery, and community engagement to mitigate the impact of these outbreaks.